Introduction

German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the deliciousness of a moist chocolate cake with a sweet, creamy filling and a topping of chocolate, caramel, coconut, and pecans. This easy-to-make cake is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or special occasion. The cake is soaked with a combination of sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce, giving it a luscious, gooey texture. Topped with chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans, this cake delivers layers of flavor and crunch in every bite.

History

Despite its name, German Chocolate Poke Cake doesn’t originate from Germany. The name “German Chocolate” actually comes from the type of chocolate used in the recipe—German’s Sweet Chocolate, which was created by an American named Samuel German in 1852. Over time, this specific chocolate became popular in cakes, particularly in the iconic “German Chocolate Cake.” The poke cake method of preparation, where holes are made in the baked cake to soak in various fillings, became popular in the 1970s. This dessert combines the classic flavors of German Chocolate Cake with a modern twist, making it a beloved treat for chocolate lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients per package instructions)
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup chocolate frosting
• ½ cup caramel frosting

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Bake the Cake: Prepare the German chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Bake until fully cooked, following the recommended baking time on the package.
3. Cool and Poke Holes: Let the cake cool slightly. Then, using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake to allow the fillings to soak in.
4. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk & Caramel: Evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Then, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
5. Top with Chocolate Chips, Coconut, and Pecans: Sprinkle the cake with chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
6. Drizzle with Frostings: Heat the chocolate and caramel frostings in the microwave until they reach a pourable consistency. Drizzle both over the cake.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the cake rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!

Methods of Preparation

Poking the Cake: This step is essential in allowing the liquid fillings (sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce) to seep deep into the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.

Layering Frostings: Drizzling both chocolate and caramel frostings adds extra richness and smoothness to the cake, completing the indulgent texture and flavor.

Benefits

This dessert offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The cake is moist and decadent, while the coconut and pecans provide a satisfying crunch. It is also an easy-to-make cake that doesn’t require advanced baking skills, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.

Nutrition

While the German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delicious treat, it is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar and calorie content. A serving contains a good amount of carbohydrates, fat, and protein, particularly from the nuts and coconut. For a more balanced treat, you can consider reducing the frosting or replacing some of the ingredients with lower-sugar alternatives.